Shanling sm90: a streamer that dares to dream big

Published on 05/04/2026 18:02 in entertainment • Éilis Cronin

Shanling has never been one to play it safe, and their latest offering, the SM90, is no exception. This compact streamer is packed with features that aim to make it the central hub of your home audio system, not just a simple music player.

A hub for all your audio needs

With a price tag under €1,000, the SM90 boasts an impressive array of connectivity options, including HDMI ARC, two AKM AK4493S DACs, and a modern Android 12 platform. This means you can stream your favorite tunes from services like Qobuz, TIDAL, and more, all while enjoying seamless integration with your TV for a more immersive audio experience.

But the SM90 isn't just about music. It's designed to be a true center for your entire home Entertainment system, capable of handling video playback and even serving as a hub for your smart home devices.

Inside the sm90

Inside the sm90

Under the hood, the SM90 features a solid spec sheet, with 4GB of RAM, 64GB of internal storage, and a 4.96-inch 1080p touchscreen display. It's a tried-and-true formula that prioritizes stability and refinement over flashy new tech.

Shanling has clearly put a lot of thought into the SM90's design, with a focus on making it easy to use and navigate. The software, while not necessarily groundbreaking, is stable and responsive, with support for all the major music streaming services and even AirPlay 2 and DLNA for wider compatibility.

One area where the SM90 falls a bit short is in its lack of built-in room correction and optimization tools. However, with its strong connectivity options and solid audio performance, this might not be a deal-breaker for many listeners.

Conclusion

Conclusion

At €999, the Shanling SM90 is priced to compete in a crowded market, but it brings a unique set of features and a focus on seamless integration that sets it apart from the competition. Whether it can carve out a niche for itself remains to be seen, but one thing's for sure: the SM90 is a bold move that's sure to spark some interesting conversations in the world of high-end audio.